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A GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is a specialized processor designed to handle lots of calculations at the same time. Originally it was all about rendering images and video, but today GPUs power everything from gaming to AI.

Think of it like this:

• CPU = very smart, does a few things at once

• GPU = less smart per task, but does thousands of things simultaneously 🚀

That parallel power is the magic.

What GPUs are used for

• 🎮 Gaming – rendering 3D worlds, lighting, shadows, textures

• 🎬 Video editing & rendering – faster exports, real-time previews

• 🧠 AI & machine learning – training neural networks

• 🧮 Scientific computing – simulations, data analysis

• 🖥️ Everyday graphics – driving monitors, UI, video playback

Main parts of a GPU

Here are the key pieces you’ll hear about a lot:

1. GPU chip (the core)

This is the “brain” of the graphics card.

• NVIDIA → CUDA cores

• AMD → Stream processors

More cores usually = more parallel work.

2. VRAM (Video Memory)

This is the GPU’s own memory.

• Stores textures, frame buffers, 3D models

• Common sizes: 4GB, 6GB, 8GB, 12GB, 16GB+

Rule of thumb:

• 1080p gaming → 6–8GB

• 1440p → 8–12GB

• 4K / AI work → 12GB+

3. Memory type & bus

• GDDR5 / GDDR6 / GDDR6X (newer = faster)

• Memory bus width (e.g., 192-bit, 256-bit) affects bandwidth

Bandwidth matters a LOT for performance.

4. Cooling

• Fans or liquid cooling

• Better cooling = quieter + higher sustained performance

5. Power delivery

• Uses PCIe slot + power connectors (6-pin, 8-pin, 12VHPWR)

• More powerful GPUs need beefier power supplies

Integrated vs Dedicated GPUs

• Integrated GPU (iGPU)
  Built into the CPU, shares system RAM
  ✔ Low power, cheap
  ✖ Weak for gaming or heavy work

• Dedicated GPU (dGPU)
  Separate graphics card with its own VRAM
  ✔ Much faster
  ✖ Uses more power, costs more

NVIDIA vs AMD (quick vibe check)

NVIDIA

• Better ray tracing

• CUDA ecosystem (huge for AI & pro apps)

• DLSS (AI upscaling)

AMD

• Often better price-to-performance

• More VRAM at similar prices

• FSR works on more hardware

Neither is “always better”—it depends on what you do.

Important GPU features

• Ray Tracing – realistic lighting & reflections

• DLSS / FSR – boosts FPS using smart upscaling

• NVENC / AMF – hardware video encoding for streaming

• PCIe Gen 4 / 5 – connection speed to the motherboard

How to choose the right GPU

Ask yourself:

1. What resolution? (1080p / 1440p / 4K)

2. What games or software?

3. Power supply wattage?

4. Budget?